A large sinkhole in Pondok Balik village, located in Central Aceh, Indonesia, is rapidly expanding, threatening local infrastructure and agricultural land. The sinkhole now covers over 30,000 square meters, an area comparable to four football fields, as it continues to grow larger by the day. This situation has raised significant concerns among residents regarding the safety of their homes and livelihoods.

Understanding Sinkholes

A sinkhole is a geological phenomenon where the surface ground suddenly collapses into an underground cavity. This occurrence typically happens when water erodes the underlying soil or rock, creating voids that the surface cannot support. In the case of the current sinkhole in Aceh, the situation is characterized by a gradual collapse caused by loose volcanic soil and exacerbated by rainfall and minor earthquakes. Unlike more sudden sinkholes, the ongoing events feature a slow-moving landslide effect.

Geological Context in Aceh

The region where the sinkhole has formed consists of soft volcanic rock and sandy soil, a remnant of an ancient volcano. Continuous heavy rainfall leads to the erosion of these soft materials. The vicinity of the Sumatran fault line also contributes to the seismic activity in the area, resulting in tremors that may further destabilize the ground. Officials have indicated that the sinkhole has been expanding towards the southeast, affecting local farmland and roads, and has already devastated crops such as coffee, chili, and sugarcane that many families rely on for their income.

Impact on Local Infrastructure

In response to the emergency, local authorities have relocated high-voltage electricity towers approximately 150 meters away to preserve power supply and prevent blackouts. The sinkhole’s proximity—now just 300 to 600 meters from residential areas and additional farmland—has prompted safety measures, including the installation of warning signs and the establishment of a restricted area deemed a danger zone.

Safety Measures and Future Actions

Although no injuries have been reported thus far, there is ongoing concern about the instability of the ground surrounding the sinkhole. The nearest village has a population of around 800 residents. Authorities have communicated that the relocation of farms or homes will be considered only if the sinkhole continues to encroach on these properties. Earlier this month, the Minister of Public Works, Dody Hanggodo, visited the site to assess damage and explore potential mitigation strategies.

Expert Analysis and Ongoing Monitoring

Officials and geological experts are evaluating options to address the extensive underground gaps, including potential filling with specialized materials and altering water flow patterns to reduce further erosion. Additionally, planting vegetation to reinforce slopes has been proposed as another measure. Experts anticipate that the sinkhole’s movements will persist for the foreseeable future, necessitating ongoing vigilance among residents and authorities to ensure safety in the affected regions.

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